Shipping and logistics company 2GO Group Inc. increased its passenger service operations to support the government’s directive to speed up the homecoming of more than 24,000 overseas Filipino workers stranded in Metro Manila amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The group, which operates the Philippines’ largest integrated supply chain, said it was “ready, willing and capable”’ of safely transporting the locally stranded OFWs and other individuals to the Visayas and Mindanao. It is also supporting the Balik Probinsiya program of the government.
The company said that on May 24, two vessels—M/V St. Therese of Child Jesus and M/V St. Leo the Great—left Manila with 1,000 repatriated Filipinos on board who were finally on their way home after being held up in the capital while undergoing the mandatory 14-day quarantine since April.
Its fleet of passenger ships made numerous hassle-free trips between Manila to 12 service ports in the Visayas and Mindanao, from Bacolod to Zamboanga.
It said that to ensure the safety and wellness of passengers and crew, the management set in place strict health and sanitation protocols that are being enforced to the letter. New sea travel guidelines are also being implemented such as social distancing in the sleeping and dining areas, regular temperature checks and less contact with crew throughout the trip.
The company said it could accommodate and bring home over 6,000 individuals for this week’s sailings to Bacolod, Cebu, Iloilo, Cagayan De Oro, Dumaguete, Ozamis, Iligan, Zamboanga and Nasipit.
All OFWs who wish to get on board should show proof that they have undergone the required quarantine and were given a clean bill of health by concerned authorities. Other required documents are ID cards showing proof of residence, passport with arrival stamp and Bureau of Quarantine certificate.
It said OFWs could coordinate with their respective manning agencies or book directly with 2GO regarding their trip. Passengers are encouraged to show up for boarding at least four hours before departure.
“We are proud to be a partner in all endeavors of the government to lift the people’s quality of life through efficient and affordable public service, notably in the transport sector. We are committed to delivering seamless movements of people and commerce at globally competitive levels,” said 2GO shipping head Dan Fernan.